
'King Maxi'
1978 Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 MK 1 'Maxi dial'
Reference: 5512
Serial: 5429xxx
Year: 1978
Case: All stainless steel
Dimensions: 40mm excluding crown
Function: Time only
Caliber: Rolex cal. 1570 Automatic
Strap: Rolex Oyster 9315 folded links stainless steel bracelet with 380 end links, clasp code VC and divers’ extension
Crystal: Acrylic
Accessories: None
Although it was by no means the very first Submariner that Rolex ever produced, many collectors regard the reference 5512 at the point in history where Rolex’s iconic dive watch collection first started to take on what would ultimately become its present-day form. Produced from 1959 until approximately 1979, the Rolex Submariner ref. 5512 brought about several notable changes to the brand’s famous dive watch family. For instance, it grew to 40mm from the 38mm case diameter of previous models, and it also introduced crown guards to the collection for the very first time.
Despite being such an important model from the Submariner’s history, Rolex is always moving forward and improving upon its designs and the reference 5512 was produced with several different variations during the span of its two-decade production run. Like most vintage Rolex watches, the Submariner ref. 5512 evolved over time, and it is this variation that makes it such an exciting model for today’s collectors.
The only difference between the Ref. 5513 and the Ref. 5512 is the fact that the 5512 was fitted with a chronometer-rated caliber, while the Ref. 5513 was not. Hence the ‘4 lines’ on the Ref. 5512 dial and the ‘2 lines’ on the Ref. 5513. Up until 1980, you had your pick of either a COSC or a non-COSC Sub.
This example offered here for sale is a Rolex Submariner Ref. 5512 with Maxi MK 1 dial that dates to 1978.
It features a flawless black matte dial with lovely warm, creamy patina hue on the lume plots and original matching hands.
The original, fat font, bezel insert is in stunning condition too, having faded to a beautiful light gray or ‘ghost’, and preserving the original matching tritium pearl/pip.
The 40mm stainless steel case is in strong condition, preserved thick and sharp, with normal signs of wear. The same condition relates to the case back.
The original domed acrylic crystal remains in great shape, with only some minor scratches that give it tons of character and that could easily be polished away.
It comes suited on the original Rolex Oyster 9315 folded links stainless steel bracelet with 380 end links, period correct clasp code VC (1978) and PATENTED divers’ extension. The bracelet shows normal signs of use and stretch for its age.
The watch is running well and keeping time, although service history is unknown.
Macros of dial and case are available under request, as well as movement and inner case back pictures.